Fans Mock Ayala for "Not Working Christmas"

Former Liverpool defender Daniel Ayala, 33, received his second red card in as many matches, prompting fans to joke that he "doesn't work Christmas." Ayala, who joined Rotherham as a free agent in October, was sent off after handling a long ball while already on a yellow card. In his previous game, Ayala received two yellow cards in the 12th and 17th minutes, resulting in a narrow 2-1 defeat against Swansea. Ayala served his one-match suspension but returned to the Millers side for their game against Plymouth, where he was sent off again. Plymouth players demanded a second yellow, and the referee obliged, making Ayala the first EFL player to be sent off in successive games this season. His suspension will likely last for two matches, meaning he will miss the game against his former team, Middlesbrough, on Boxing Day.

Fans React on Twitter

Fans took to Twitter to mock Ayala for his repeated dismissals and his tendency to receive red cards during the festive season. One fan suggested that Ayala deliberately gets himself sent off to have Christmas off, while another described him as "a chancer of the highest order." Many fans made jokes about Ayala's Christmas holiday, with one saying that Ayala has more days off in the winter than an ice cream man. Despite the jokes, fans acknowledged that Ayala is a talented player.

Manager's Response

Rotherham manager Leam Richardson commented on Ayala's actions, stating that experienced players should make better decisions. He expressed the intention to speak with Ayala and address the issue moving forward.

Overall, Ayala's repeated red cards have proven costly for Rotherham, as they remain at the bottom of the Championship table, nine points from safety. It remains to be seen how long Ayala's suspension will last and how it will impact the team's performance in upcoming matches.